1999 Wide AM Penny Value: How to Spot It
A 1999 Wide AM penny retails around $612 in gem uncirculated condition, and circulated ones still sell for a solid premium. The tell is a clear gap between the A and the M in AMERICA on the back. Most 1999 pennies have the A and M almost touching and are worth one cent.
- Variety
- 1999 Philadelphia cent struck with a proof-style reverse, FS-901.
- The tell
- A and M in AMERICA clearly separated, and the FG initials close to the Memorial building.
- Related
- Wide AM business strikes also exist for 1998 and 2000, but are worth much less.
Value by grade
| Coin | Value |
|---|---|
| 1999 Wide AM | $612 |
| 1998 Wide AM | $30 |
| 2000 Wide AM | $25 |
| 1999-S Close AM proof (PR65) | $100 |
| 1992 Close AM | $12,164 |
| Normal 1999 cent | $0.36 |
Retail values from USA Coin Book. Values checked Oct 8, 2026.
What to look for
- Flip the coin and look at AMERICA. On a Wide AM the A and M have a visible gap. On a normal coin they nearly touch at the base.
- Check the FG initials to the right of the Memorial steps. On a Wide AM they sit closer to the building.
- 1999 with no mint mark only. A 1999-D is not this variety.
Fakes and lookalikes
- Worn or damaged letters can fool you. Compare to a known normal 1999 side by side under the same light.
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FAQ
How much is a 1999 Wide AM penny worth?
About $612 in gem uncirculated per USA Coin Book. Circulated ones sell for less but still well above face.
How do I check for Wide AM?
Look at the A and M in AMERICA on the back. A clear gap means Wide AM. Touching or nearly touching means normal.
What about the 1992 Close AM?
That is the reverse situation: a normal 1992 has a wide gap, and the rare 1992 Close AM has the letters touching. It is worth about $12,164 in MS65.
Related coins
Sources
Values are retail estimates or recorded sale prices from the sources above, checked Oct 8, 2026. What a dealer pays you is usually less than retail.
Also available as Markdown.